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Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Does Tech have Miami’s number?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
If past results mean anything, Georgia Tech is in good shape Thursday.
The Jackets have won three straight over the Hurricanes, seven of the last nine.
And as Craig Handel of The News-Press in Fort Myers, Fla., points out, the last three games have all been painful for Miami.
Tech’s 14-10 win in 2005 cost Miami a chance to reach the ACC title game.
Tech’s 30-23 win in 2006 started the Canes on a four-game skid that took them out of ACC contention.
Tech’s 17-14 win last year cost Miami a bowl game.
Now Miami comes to town controlling its own destiny in the Coastal Division.
CPJ was asked yesterday whether Tech’s recent success gives the Jackets an edge.
“I don’t know. I think that’s water under the bridge,” he said. “They have a lot of different players and we have a lot of different players. We have had success against them defensively for the last couple of years. Last year was a hard-fought game down there, so I wouldn’t put too much stock in that. Both teams are different this year in that they have a different defensive coach and we have a whole different staff.”
Tech ranks eighth nationally with 251 rushing yards per game. Miami ranks 19th nationally in rushing defense, allowing 107 yards per game.
Ranked No. 23, Miami is on a five-game winning streak. The Canes are healthier than Tech, despite the Jackets’ extra rest. And if the game comes down to a field goal, Miami probably has the edge there.
Sophomore Matt Bosher nailed three field goals last week against Virginia Tech and is 16-for-18 this season. He’s a Lou Groza Award semifinalist.
Tech’s three-game win streak over Miami might not be all that relevant on Thursday, but it has to give the Jackets confidence.
How much of a factor do you think it will be?
